American Hockey League implements drug testing policy for 2014-15

An education and drug testing program will be implemented for American Hockey League players, effective for the 2014-15 season, the National Hockey League and American Hockey League announced today.

The details of the AHL program, which was the result of a collaborative effort between the two leagues (NHL and AHL), the National Hockey League Players' Association and the Professional Hockey Players' Association (which represents AHL players in collective bargaining), substantially replicate the collectively bargained policies already in place for NHL players.

In the NHL, a first positive test results in a 20-game suspension without pay and mandatory referral to the league's Substance Abuse/Behavioral Health Program for evaluation, education and possible treatment.

A second positive test brings a 60-game suspension without pay.

A third positive test results in a permanent suspension. A player receiving a third positive test and a permanent suspension from play in the league will, however, be eligible to apply for reinstatement after two years.

The AHL drug testing program will be administered by the doctors who supervise the NHL/NHLPA Performance-Enhancing Substances Program and the Substance Abuse/Behavioral Health Program.